Job description

Job responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

• Provide specialist palliative care assessment, advice and support to patients with complex needs and those important to them.
• Undertake holistic assessments considering physical, psychological, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual needs.
• Develop, implement and evaluate individualised care plans in partnership with patients, families and professionals.
• Support and manage patients presenting with highly complex symptom burden, uncertainty, palliative care emergencies and rapidly changing clinical needs.
• Recognise deterioration and respond appropriately to changes in clinical condition, including palliative care emergencies.
• Provide timely specialist advice to patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Utilise advanced clinical reasoning and specialist decision-making skills to support complex care planning.
• Promote advance care planning, including discussions regarding preferred place of care and preferred place of death where appropriate.
• Coordinate and facilitate effective transitions between care settings, ensuring continuity of care and communication across services.
• Contribute to ethical decision-making relating to capacity, consent and best-interest decisions.
• Act as an advocate for patients, families and carers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, contributing specialist nursing knowledge and clinical recommendations.
• Provide advice regarding appropriate referral pathways and access to specialist services.
• Work autonomously within professional boundaries and seek advice appropriately when required.
• Prescribe medicines safely where qualified and authorised to do so, in accordance with legislation, professional standards, local policies and formularies. Maintain competence in independent prescribing practice and contribute to anticipatory prescribing and medicines optimisation in line with service requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of current evidence-based approaches to palliative symptom management.
• Contribute to the development, review and implementation of clinical policies, pathways and standards.

Professional Leadership and Clinical Practice

• Act as a positive professional role model demonstrating compassionate, inclusive and person-centred care.
• Promote high standards of specialist palliative nursing practice, influence practice across hospice, community and acute settings to promote excellence in palliative care.
• Provide specialist advice and support to registered nurses, healthcare assistants and other professionals. Coach, supervise and support colleagues to develop competence and confidence in end-of-life care.
• Contribute to clinical decision-making within the multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrate leadership in complex patient situations.
• Promote dignity, respect, equality and inclusion in all aspects of care delivery.
• Challenge practice where necessary to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Support implementation of evidence-based practice and national guidance.
• Contribute to succession planning, service and workforce development and improvement initiatives.
• Actively support the creation of an inclusive, psychologically safe working environment.

Medicines Management

• Demonstrate knowledge of medicines commonly used within specialist palliative care.
• Provide advice regarding safe prescribing, administration and monitoring of medicines.
• Support appropriate medicines optimisation.
• Work within local medicines management policies and professional standards.
• Maintain competence in prescribing practice where applicable.

Quality Improvement, Audit and Research

• Participate in quality improvement activities to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Contribute to clinical audit programmes and service evaluation.
• Evaluate clinical outcomes and use data to improve patient experience and service delivery. Identify opportunities for improving care pathways and service delivery.
• Lead and/or contribute to quality improvement projects and implementation of evidence-based practice.
• Participate in research activity where appropriate.
• Share learning through clinical forums, education sessions and professional networks.
• Participate in risk management, incident review and learning processes.

Education, Training and Development

• Maintain specialist knowledge and competence through continuing professional development.
• Deliver education and training to hospice staff, healthcare professionals and partner organisations.
• Support the development of colleagues through coaching, supervision and teaching. Support colleagues following emotionally challenging clinical situations and contribute to a culture of reflection, wellbeing and professional support.
• Act as a Practice Supervisor and/or Practice Assessor for student nurses in accordance with current NMC standards.
• Support new staff through induction, orientation and ongoing development.
• Contribute to clinical competency development.
• Attend mandatory training and professional development activities.
• Maintain awareness of current national guidance relating to palliative and end-of-life care.

Safeguarding and Professional Responsibilities

• Recognise and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• Work within safeguarding adults procedures and legislation.
• Apply principles of the Mental Capacity Act and best-interest decision-making.
• Maintain professional accountability in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code.
• Maintain confidentiality and information governance standards.
• Report risks, incidents and concerns appropriately.

Communication

• Communicate sensitively and effectively with patients, families and carers regarding complex and emotional issues.
• Use advanced communication skills when discussing diagnosis, prognosis, uncertainty and end-of-life decisions.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external professionals.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation within electronic patient records.
• Participate in virtual and face-to-face multidisciplinary meetings.
• Promote effective communication across organisational boundaries.

Information Governance and Digital Practice

• Maintain accurate clinical records in accordance with professional standards.
• Use electronic patient record systems effectively.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with UK GDPR and information governance requirements.
• Ensure information is shared appropriately and securely.
• Develop confidence in digital approaches to supporting patient care.

Personal and Professional Development

• Maintain professional registration and meet NMC requirements.
• Take responsibility for personal learning and development.
• Participate in appraisal and development processes.
• Identify learning needs and undertake appropriate education and training.
• Reflect on practice and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Significant experience as a registered nurse
• Experienced in the use of common IT software in the workplace to ECDL standard

Desirable

• Use of electronic records

Qualifications

Essential

• 1st Level Registered Nurse
• First degree in nursing/palliative care or associated clinical field or equivalent
• Formal mentorship qualification including as a practice supervisor or assessor

Knowledge, Skills and Other Requirements

Essential

• Must hold valid, unrestricted right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship
• Holistic assessment skills
• Demonstrates specialist knowledge in the field of palliative care with a high degree of skills and abilities in managing advanced palliative symptoms
• Can effectively impart and transfer knowledge to others and articulate a balanced evidence based review to support patients care plan / care plan reviews in internal and external multi-professional meetings
• Demonstrates effective influencing skills
• Effective time management skills
• Demonstrates knowledge of the clinical audit cycle and can give examples of effective use of audit in improving practice

Desirable

• Can demonstrate knowledge, skills and or abilities in a specific area of interest with regards to end of life care

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice

Hythe Road

Ashford

Kent

TN24 0NE

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Job Dimensions

• The post holder will work as part of a team to deliver high quality palliative care in the in-patient unit at either Ashford/Canterbury/Thanet but may be required to work at any of the other sites upon request.
• The post holder will support the operational management by take responsibility for the ward in the absence of the Ward Manager and Ward Sister, ensuring patient care is maintained.
• Although not responsible for a budget, the post holder will be expected to be aware of cost implications and make the best use of valuable resources.
• The post holder will contribute to the learning environment, acting as practice supervisor/assessor to qualified/unqualified colleagues and students, to facilitate and assist in achieving learning objectives.

• The post holder will be a registered nurse accountable for the direct delivery of patient care within an in-patient unit caring for patients with palliative needs.
• Work will be undertaken in line with Pilgrims Hospice, local and national policy and guidance and the NMC professional codes of conduct.
• The post holder will work within the multidisciplinary team and will influence the decisions of patient care from a nursing perspective. On a day to day basis the post holder will work under indirect supervision making decisions based on best practice and evidence based research.
• Working within a team structure the registered nurse will ensure all incidents, complaints, difficulties and complex situations are documented and any remedial actions taken by the multi-disciplinary. In addition the post holder will ensure the Ward Sister or Ward Manager are notified and aware of such occurrences.

Principle accountabilities and responsibilities

Clinical and professional

• Maintain a high level of nursing care through direct delivery of personal, emotional and psychological care for patients. Through effective assessment of each patients needs and preferences the post holder will plan evidence based nursing care, implement and continuously evaluate the care given and ensure this meets the needs of individualized patient care.
• Undertake patient care as directed in the patients care plan in order to meet each patients care needs whilst maintaining independence as much as possible and maintaining privacy and dignity at all times. This will include for example hygiene and elimination needs, assisting eating and drinking and ensuring nutrition is maintained.
• Successfully manage clinical emergencies specifically related to palliative care through swift recognition, instigating and carrying out any immediate actions and reporting and sharing information quickly.
• Whilst responsible to the ward sister/team leader, the post holder will work competently and confidently without direct supervision to complete delegated work load, including maintaining skill mix and staff planning.
• To maintain effective operation, the post holder will take responsibility for the ward, delegate the workload and supervise trained and untrained staff as needed.
• Maintain continuity of patient care through accurate verbal reports and electronic and written documentation including the use of electronic patient management systems ensuring patient confidentiality at all times.
• Ensure all patient information is electronically recorded in a safe, accurate and contemporaneous manner through familiarity with and daily use of EMIS and Ashtons electronic patient management system and adherence to Hospice IT protocols.
• Expedite successful discharge where appropriate with good quality planning for patients needs.
• Provide sensitive and empathetic emotional and psychological support for patients and carers during the delivery of bad news, of terminal care and during and after the event of death. Ensure high standard of care for patient and carers after death by following appropriate hospice protocols.
• Maintain safe and effective drug administration by administering all medications, and setting up and maintaining subcutaneous syringe drivers according to the Hospice and NMC codes and guidelines.
• Maintain safe nursing practice by attaining and maintaining competency in clinical interventions as set out within the knowledge and skills framework.
• Ensure high standard of care through awareness and implementation of Hospice policies, procedures and guidelines especially in relation to infection control, manual handling, health and safety and fire.

Management

• Ensure the safety of patients, visitors and other staff by maintaining a safe environment, recognising any hazards and responding appropriately.
• Participates in the induction of new staff and facilitates the training of new and existing colleagues through mentorship and supervision as required. In addition is required to act as practice supervisor/assessor for student health professionals, assisting with learning and providing documented evidence as required.
• Contributes to the organization and running of the ward by undertaking administrative tasks as requested i.e. ward staff rota
• Maintain adequate levels of drugs, dressings and general stores by ordering according to hospice practice.
• Promote a high level of consistent nursing care by participating in the development and implementation of clinical policies and protocols.
• Maintain knowledge and skills competencies and high standards of care, through continued professional development set out within the performance management process including annual appraisal, attending and successfully completing mandatory training and reviewing progress with the line manager alongside a personal development plan.
• Provides teaching sessions to ward based colleagues as required, either on an individual basis or small groups as required, e.g. in manual handling, infection control or NVQ modules. These may be pre-planned or impromptu as time allows.
• Facilitate any internal or external research projects by participating and/or auditing as requested by the Ward Manager.

Measures of Success

• Achievement of a safe, effective ward in which palliative nursing care is successfully accomplished.
• High level of satisfaction from patients and relatives, low level of adverse comments or complaints.
• Effective understanding and successful implementation of the Hospices policies and procedures
• Successful supervision of untrained staff.
• Effective use of all physical and IT based resources including stocks, supplies, data systems and the patient management system (EMIS/Ashtons)

Communications & Relationships

Internal - Nurse Manager and Ward Sister, Lead Nurse Patient Safety and Quality Consultant, Multi Disciplinary Team, Administrator Volunteers

External - General practitioners, Community Nurses, Hospital CNS Teams

• Attend multidisciplinary team meetings to provide nursing opinion on patient and clinical issues ensuring that open and focused discussion is practiced.
• Meet with patients carers to address and advise on nursing care, clinical practice, and patient related inquiries. Ensure patients and carers are informed with regard to patient choice, treatment and progress, whilst maintaining respect for the privacy and dignity of the patient.
• Effectively communicate with other agencies to ensure continuity of care between the Hospice, community and continuing care setting.
• Ensure patients understanding and compliance for treatment or intervention is maintained even when communication is impaired, e.g. due to visual, hearing or cognitive impairment by using all verbal and non verbal communication skills.
• Ensure continuity of care by providing effective verbal and written reports on individual patients conditions and any changes in treatment to members of nursing team at handover to next shift and to recognise the need to report to senior nurse or doctor when appropriate.
• Negotiate and advocate on behalf of patients, relatives and staff, providing information that can be difficult for people to understand or can cause distress for example giving pre / post bereavement support, information, advice to patients, families, children, next of kin, friends and recognise the need to refer to other expert counsellors and agencies.
• Ensure effective channels of communication with individuals, the multidisciplinary team, other departments, outside agencies, managers and staff. This can take the form of receiving and acting on information, giving advice, and attending meetings.
• Adopt standards of behaviours in keeping with Pilgrims Hospice mission and core values and the NMC Professional code of conduct.
• Attend meetings within the Hospice, for example ward nursing staff/ multidisciplinary team handover, Health and Safety and relevant meetings and briefings as directed by the Ward Manager.

Education/Training/Teaching

• Ensures own knowledge is up to date, undertaking mandatory training and attending workshops and training courses for the benefit of continued personal development, to learn new skills and increase knowledge.
• Takes responsibility for ensuring that new staff receive support and education during induction and acts as a positive role model.
• Promotes the work of the Hospice through collaborative working with clinical and allied professionals, participating in a multi-professional team working approach to support patients, families and careers irrespective of setting.
• Contributes to the delivery of formal and informal education within Pilgrims Hospices.
• Directly supervise student nurses in the clinical areas acting as a practice supervisor/assessor and assisting learners to achieve learning objectives.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• First Level registration
• Evidence of ongoing professional development

Desirable

• Post registration Nursing Course (Palliative Care Dip/Degree, ENB 931, 237 or equivalent)

Experience

Essential

• Sound experience as registered nurse in specialist palliative care setting or to transfer skills from an associated environment
• Experience with mentoring student/junior nurses.

Desirable

• Practice Supervisor / Practice Assessor or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills and Other Requirements

Essential

• Must hold valid, unrestricted right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship
• Good communication skills
• Organisational and managerial skills
• Teaching skills
• Supervision and staff support skills
• Knowledge of IT and ability to use IT appropriately in the workplace.
• Ability to work in a multi-professional environment
• Flexible approach to working patterns and the changing needs of healthcare
• Knowledge of IT & ability to use IT appropriately in the workplace
• Neat, tidy and professional appearance
• Strong motivation to work at Pilgrims Hospice
• Car Driver / Access to a vehicle

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury

56 London Road

Canterbury

Kent

CT2 8JY

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

• Provide specialist palliative care assessment, advice and support to patients with complex needs and those important to them.
• Undertake holistic assessments considering physical, psychological, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual needs.
• Develop, implement and evaluate individualised care plans in partnership with patients, families and professionals.
• Support and manage patients presenting with highly complex symptom burden, uncertainty, palliative care emergencies and rapidly changing clinical needs.
• Recognise deterioration and respond appropriately to changes in clinical condition, including palliative care emergencies.
• Provide timely specialist advice to patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Utilise advanced clinical reasoning and specialist decision-making skills to support complex care planning.
• Promote advance care planning, including discussions regarding preferred place of care and preferred place of death where appropriate.
• Coordinate and facilitate effective transitions between care settings, ensuring continuity of care and communication across services.
• Contribute to ethical decision-making relating to capacity, consent and best-interest decisions.
• Act as an advocate for patients, families and carers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, contributing specialist nursing knowledge and clinical recommendations.
• Provide advice regarding appropriate referral pathways and access to specialist services.
• Work autonomously within professional boundaries and seek advice appropriately when required.
• Prescribe medicines safely where qualified and authorised to do so, in accordance with legislation, professional standards, local policies and formularies. Maintain competence in independent prescribing practice and contribute to anticipatory prescribing and medicines optimisation in line with service requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of current evidence-based approaches to palliative symptom management.
• Contribute to the development, review and implementation of clinical policies, pathways and standards.

Professional Leadership and Clinical Practice

• Act as a positive professional role model demonstrating compassionate, inclusive and person-centred care.
• Promote high standards of specialist palliative nursing practice, influence practice across hospice, community and acute settings to promote excellence in palliative care.
• Provide specialist advice and support to registered nurses, healthcare assistants and other professionals. Coach, supervise and support colleagues to develop competence and confidence in end-of-life care.
• Contribute to clinical decision-making within the multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrate leadership in complex patient situations.
• Promote dignity, respect, equality and inclusion in all aspects of care delivery.
• Challenge practice where necessary to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Support implementation of evidence-based practice and national guidance.
• Contribute to succession planning, service and workforce development and improvement initiatives.
• Actively support the creation of an inclusive, psychologically safe working environment.

Medicines Management

• Demonstrate knowledge of medicines commonly used within specialist palliative care.
• Provide advice regarding safe prescribing, administration and monitoring of medicines.
• Support appropriate medicines optimisation.
• Work within local medicines management policies and professional standards.
• Maintain competence in prescribing practice where applicable.

Quality Improvement, Audit and Research

• Participate in quality improvement activities to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Contribute to clinical audit programmes and service evaluation.
• Evaluate clinical outcomes and use data to improve patient experience and service delivery. Identify opportunities for improving care pathways and service delivery.
• Lead and/or contribute to quality improvement projects and implementation of evidence-based practice.
• Participate in research activity where appropriate.
• Share learning through clinical forums, education sessions and professional networks.
• Participate in risk management, incident review and learning processes.

Education, Training and Development

• Maintain specialist knowledge and competence through continuing professional development.
• Deliver education and training to hospice staff, healthcare professionals and partner organisations.
• Support the development of colleagues through coaching, supervision and teaching. Support colleagues following emotionally challenging clinical situations and contribute to a culture of reflection, wellbeing and professional support.
• Act as a Practice Supervisor and/or Practice Assessor for student nurses in accordance with current NMC standards.
• Support new staff through induction, orientation and ongoing development.
• Contribute to clinical competency development.
• Attend mandatory training and professional development activities.
• Maintain awareness of current national guidance relating to palliative and end-of-life care.

Safeguarding and Professional Responsibilities

• Recognise and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• Work within safeguarding adults procedures and legislation.
• Apply principles of the Mental Capacity Act and best-interest decision-making.
• Maintain professional accountability in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code.
• Maintain confidentiality and information governance standards.
• Report risks, incidents and concerns appropriately.

Communication

• Communicate sensitively and effectively with patients, families and carers regarding complex and emotional issues.
• Use advanced communication skills when discussing diagnosis, prognosis, uncertainty and end-of-life decisions.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external professionals.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation within electronic patient records.
• Participate in virtual and face-to-face multidisciplinary meetings.
• Promote effective communication across organisational boundaries.

Information Governance and Digital Practice

• Maintain accurate clinical records in accordance with professional standards.
• Use electronic patient record systems effectively.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with UK GDPR and information governance requirements.
• Ensure information is shared appropriately and securely.
• Develop confidence in digital approaches to supporting patient care.

Personal and Professional Development

• Maintain professional registration and meet NMC requirements.
• Take responsibility for personal learning and development.
• Participate in appraisal and development processes.
• Identify learning needs and undertake appropriate education and training.
• Reflect on practice and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Significant experience as a registered nurse
• Experienced in the use of common IT software in the workplace to ECDL standard

Desirable

• Use of electronic records

Qualifications

Essential

• 1st Level Registered Nurse
• First degree in nursing/palliative care or associated clinical field or equivalent
• Formal mentorship qualification including as a practice supervisor or assessor

Knowledge, Skills and Other Requirements

Essential

• Must hold valid, unrestricted right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship
• Holistic assessment skills
• Demonstrates specialist knowledge in the field of palliative care with a high degree of skills and abilities in managing advanced palliative symptoms
• Can effectively impart and transfer knowledge to others and articulate a balanced evidence based review to support patients care plan / care plan reviews in internal and external multi-professional meetings
• Demonstrates effective influencing skills
• Effective time management skills
• Demonstrates knowledge of the clinical audit cycle and can give examples of effective use of audit in improving practice

Desirable

• Can demonstrate knowledge, skills and or abilities in a specific area of interest with regards to end of life care

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice

56 London Road

Canterbury

Kent

CT2 8JY

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

• Provide specialist palliative care assessment, advice and support to patients with complex needs and those important to them.
• Undertake holistic assessments considering physical, psychological, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual needs.
• Develop, implement and evaluate individualised care plans in partnership with patients, families and professionals.
• Support and manage patients presenting with highly complex symptom burden, uncertainty, palliative care emergencies and rapidly changing clinical needs.
• Recognise deterioration and respond appropriately to changes in clinical condition, including palliative care emergencies.
• Provide timely specialist advice to patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Utilise advanced clinical reasoning and specialist decision-making skills to support complex care planning.
• Promote advance care planning, including discussions regarding preferred place of care and preferred place of death where appropriate.
• Coordinate and facilitate effective transitions between care settings, ensuring continuity of care and communication across services.
• Contribute to ethical decision-making relating to capacity, consent and best-interest decisions.
• Act as an advocate for patients, families and carers.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, contributing specialist nursing knowledge and clinical recommendations.
• Provide advice regarding appropriate referral pathways and access to specialist services.
• Work autonomously within professional boundaries and seek advice appropriately when required.
• Prescribe medicines safely where qualified and authorised to do so, in accordance with legislation, professional standards, local policies and formularies. Maintain competence in independent prescribing practice and contribute to anticipatory prescribing and medicines optimisation in line with service requirements.
• Maintain knowledge of current evidence-based approaches to palliative symptom management.
• Contribute to the development, review and implementation of clinical policies, pathways and standards.

Professional Leadership and Clinical Practice

• Act as a positive professional role model demonstrating compassionate, inclusive and person-centred care.
• Promote high standards of specialist palliative nursing practice, influence practice across hospice, community and acute settings to promote excellence in palliative care.
• Provide specialist advice and support to registered nurses, healthcare assistants and other professionals. Coach, supervise and support colleagues to develop competence and confidence in end-of-life care.
• Contribute to clinical decision-making within the multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrate leadership in complex patient situations.
• Promote dignity, respect, equality and inclusion in all aspects of care delivery.
• Challenge practice where necessary to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Support implementation of evidence-based practice and national guidance.
• Contribute to succession planning, service and workforce development and improvement initiatives.
• Actively support the creation of an inclusive, psychologically safe working environment.

Medicines Management

• Demonstrate knowledge of medicines commonly used within specialist palliative care.
• Provide advice regarding safe prescribing, administration and monitoring of medicines.
• Support appropriate medicines optimisation.
• Work within local medicines management policies and professional standards.
• Maintain competence in prescribing practice where applicable.

Quality Improvement, Audit and Research

• Participate in quality improvement activities to improve patient outcomes and experience.
• Contribute to clinical audit programmes and service evaluation.
• Evaluate clinical outcomes and use data to improve patient experience and service delivery. Identify opportunities for improving care pathways and service delivery.
• Lead and/or contribute to quality improvement projects and implementation of evidence-based practice.
• Participate in research activity where appropriate.
• Share learning through clinical forums, education sessions and professional networks.
• Participate in risk management, incident review and learning processes.

Education, Training and Development

• Maintain specialist knowledge and competence through continuing professional development.
• Deliver education and training to hospice staff, healthcare professionals and partner organisations.
• Support the development of colleagues through coaching, supervision and teaching. Support colleagues following emotionally challenging clinical situations and contribute to a culture of reflection, wellbeing and professional support.
• Act as a Practice Supervisor and/or Practice Assessor for student nurses in accordance with current NMC standards.
• Support new staff through induction, orientation and ongoing development.
• Contribute to clinical competency development.
• Attend mandatory training and professional development activities.
• Maintain awareness of current national guidance relating to palliative and end-of-life care.

Safeguarding and Professional Responsibilities

• Recognise and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• Work within safeguarding adults procedures and legislation.
• Apply principles of the Mental Capacity Act and best-interest decision-making.
• Maintain professional accountability in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council Code.
• Maintain confidentiality and information governance standards.
• Report risks, incidents and concerns appropriately.

Communication

• Communicate sensitively and effectively with patients, families and carers regarding complex and emotional issues.
• Use advanced communication skills when discussing diagnosis, prognosis, uncertainty and end-of-life decisions.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external professionals.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation within electronic patient records.
• Participate in virtual and face-to-face multidisciplinary meetings.
• Promote effective communication across organisational boundaries.

Information Governance and Digital Practice

• Maintain accurate clinical records in accordance with professional standards.
• Use electronic patient record systems effectively.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with UK GDPR and information governance requirements.
• Ensure information is shared appropriately and securely.
• Develop confidence in digital approaches to supporting patient care.

Personal and Professional Development

• Maintain professional registration and meet NMC requirements.
• Take responsibility for personal learning and development.
• Participate in appraisal and development processes.
• Identify learning needs and undertake appropriate education and training.
• Reflect on practice and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Significant experience as a registered nurse
• Experienced in the use of common IT software in the workplace to ECDL standard

Desirable

• Use of electronic records

Qualifications

Essential

• 1st Level Registered Nurse
• First degree in nursing/palliative care or associated clinical field or equivalent
• Formal mentorship qualification including as a practice supervisor or assessor

Knowledge, Skills and Other Requirements

Essential

• Must hold valid, unrestricted right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship
• Holistic assessment skills
• Demonstrates specialist knowledge in the field of palliative care with a high degree of skills and abilities in managing advanced palliative symptoms
• Can effectively impart and transfer knowledge to others and articulate a balanced evidence based review to support patients care plan / care plan reviews in internal and external multi-professional meetings
• Demonstrates effective influencing skills
• Effective time management skills
• Demonstrates knowledge of the clinical audit cycle and can give examples of effective use of audit in improving practice

Desirable

• Can demonstrate knowledge, skills and or abilities in a specific area of interest with regards to end of life care

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice

Ramsgate Road

Margate

Kent

CT9 4AD

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

The post holder will assist the trained nurses in ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care in a safe and pleasant environment. Working as a member of a designated nursing team the HCA will deliver elements of care safely under the supervision of a trained nurse, treating patients with respect, dignity and kindness, valuing individuality and maintaining confidentiality at all times.

In order to be considered you must have NVQ Level II Care Certificate or equivalent.

Clinical and Professional Responsibilities

• Working under the direct supervision of the registered nurse administers as directed in the patients care plan, basic nursing care to patients in order to meet their fundamental health care needs. This will include nursing duties such as assisting patients to the toilet, washing and bathing, assisting patients to eat and or drink as independently as possible.
• Assist patients with personal care whilst maintaining privacy and dignity at all times
• To be responsible for undertaking some tasks independently without direction and supervision. This will include activities such as making beds and cleaning of equipment.
• Makes accurate records at the point of care using the hospices electronic record and reports relevant information directly to the registered nurse.
• To use and store all equipment safely and correctly in accordance with Hospice and manufacturers instructions, including cleaning of equipment and ensuring batteries in equipment are fully charged, ensuring safety for both patients and staff.
• To attend mandatory training and updates. Ensuring patient safety at all times and that any care given is in line with training received and follows either verbal direction from a registered nurse or is directed via written nursing care plans or multidisciplinary goal setting sheets. This will also include the care and management of those patients who are unable to maintain their own safety because of confusion, cognitive impairment or any sensory deficit.
• Assisting in transferring deceased patients to the relevant areas in the hospice setting. Assisting in giving the deceased last offices respecting their spiritual, cultural and religious needs. Releasing the patient in to the care of the relevant undertakers.
• Ensuring safe custody of patients property.
• Actively participate in the prevention of cross infection, understanding and adopting into practice the principles of infection control in accordance with hospice policy. In addition will assist in the monitoring, storing, and disposal of equipment and hazardous materials in accordance with health and safety guidelines. This will include safe disposal of sharps and soiled linen
• To be responsible for reporting any incident or near miss immediately to the nurse in charge of the ward.
• To communicate appropriately with all members of the multidisciplinary team, other colleagues, patients, relatives and visitors to the ward. Displaying a friendly and approachable manner at all times
• To act in a non-judgemental way and treat each and every patient as an individual, respecting his or her choices, wishes, customs, values and beliefs irrespective of your own ideals and culture

Management responsibilities

• To be aware of the employees responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment, reporting accidents or untoward incidents and potential for risk.
• Acting as an ambassador of Pilgrims Hospices to patients, their families, other health care professionals and members of the public at all times.
• Maintain regular communication and liaison with the line manager as part of delivering an appropriate and high quality service including regular attendance at team meetings.
• Complies with Pilgrims Hospice policies on patient documentation; updates patients records ensuring entries are accurate, relevant, legible and contemporaneous.
• Participation in audits, research and surveys of Pilgrims Hospices services as requested.
• Attend induction programs for new team members, supporting new staff during their induction through mentorship within the community setting.
• Ensures own knowledge is up to date, undertaking mandatory training and attending workshops and training courses for the benefit own continued development and to learn new skills and increase knowledge.
• Work as an effective team member offering support, direction and guidance to team members
• Maintain effective communication within and beyond the immediate team

Measures of Success

• Achievement of a safe, effective environment in which End of Life nursing care is successfully accomplished.
• High level of satisfaction from patients and relatives, low level of adverse comments or complaints.
• Effective understanding and successful implementation of the Hospices policies and procedures
• Uses communication skills to maintain and provide effective and holistic patient care

Communications and Relationships

• To communicate appropriately with all members of the multidisciplinary team, other colleagues, patients, relatives and visitors to the ward. Displaying a friendly and approachable manner at all times
• To communicate effectively and appropriately with patients from diverse backgrounds including different cultures, and those who exhibit challenging behaviour, sensory loss and other difficulties with communication, utilising appropriate aides and tools as required
• To understand the physical and mental health needs of older people who have complex and multiple health issues within the role boundaries
• To involve patients in all care and provide choices whenever possible to help patients maintain optimum independence and a sense of self control
• To ensure any queries raised by patients, families and visitors are responded to in a friendly and sensitive way and directed to the appropriate health care professional if the issue cannot be resolved locally
• Communicates effectively ensuring the relay to the appropriate professional any concerns or wishes expressed by the patient.
• Completes incident reports and also actively encourages and supports team members with this activity. Assists senior nurse manager with incident investigations and provide reports as required by Quality and Governance framework
• Actively participate in the prevention of cross infection, understanding and adopting into practices the principles of infection control in accordance with policy and training.
• To act in a non judgemental way and treat each patient and carer as an individual, respecting his or her choices, wishes, customs, values and beliefs

This Job Description is not exhaustive. This job description is a reflection of the current position and the post holder is expected to view it as a guide rather than an exact description of all duties and responsibilities. It may be subject to variation from time to time. The post holder will be required to undertake any other duties that may be required by the Line Manager, commensurate with the level of the post.

Person Specification

Skills and Abilities

Essential

• - Good communication and organisational skills
• - Working on own initiative with common sense approach
• - Understanding and ability to demonstrate how to care for a patient in a palliative care ward environment
• - Willingness to work unsocial hours including nights regularly or on a permanent basis
• - Car owner or access to suitable transport arrangements to enable to undertake job
• - Flexible approach to working pattern and duties
• - Sensitive, caring and empathetic
• - Confidence to work alone and as part of a team
• - Good communication skills with patients, families, carers and the multi-disciplinary team
• - Excellent documentation skills

Qualifications

Essential

• NVQ in Care Level II Or Care Certficate

Right to work in the UK

Essential

• All candidates must have the right to work in the UK and documentary evidence of proof will be requested as part of the pre-screening process. Pilgrims Hospices does not offer sponsorship to overseas applicants.

Experience

Essential

• Experience of caring for others Previous experience in providing personal care to patients

Desirable

• Palliative / hospice care experience Previous experience in community care

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice

Hythe Road

Ashford

Kent

TN24 0NE

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Please refer to the Job Description document for more information on what the role of Speciality Doctor entails.

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Minimum 2 years experience of Palliative Care
• Possesses range of clinical knowledge, skills & information technology expertise.
• Concerned to maintain & develop this knowledge.
• Displays sound professional judgement
• Sees patients within a holistic context
• Able to manage general medical on call needs of palliative care patients

Desirable

• Hospice experience

Qualifications

Essential

• MBBS or equivalent.
• Full GMC registration.
• Completion of Foundation competencies.

Desirable

• Completion of ST1/CT1 and ST2/CT2 or equivalent experience.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice

Ramsgate Road

Margate

CT9 4AD

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Undertake person centred holistic assessment in consultation with patients, carers and families identifying symptoms and needs and prescribe appropriate services to enable and empower individuals and enhance psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing.

Engage with and contribute positively to Wellbeing Programmes, facilitating and delivering evidence based group interventions, one to one interventions and activities to improve health and wellbeing.

Evaluating feedback to inform ongoing development and design of the services.

To be fully conversant with Pilgrims Therapy Wellbeing Programmes, and committedto the ongoing evaluation, development and delivery of wellbeing services across theorganisation.

Promote the benefits of Wellbeing Programmes to all hospice patients and theirfamilies, and encourage referrals from the Multidisciplinary Team and external healthand social care colleagues. To engage with patients on the inpatient unit and supportwith patient centred wellbeing interventions.

To be engaged with the discharge process of patients on the inpatient unit,discussing Therapy Centre wellbeing interventions and offering referrals toappropriate groups and programmes.

Apply a range of interpersonal skills in response to the different needs of individuals,using active listening skills and adapting communication to build a rapport withpatients and family members, as well as volunteers and professional colleagues.

Engage with patients and carers via virtual technology and supportive telephone calls

To facilitate support groups and educational sessions in person and via virtualtechnology, including contributing to pre-recorded virtual programmes and sessions.

To support the team in building and maintaining appropriate external partnerships.

To liaise with local community support services and groups.

Engage with and contribute positively to Multidisciplinary Team meetings anddecision making, sharing appropriate information to benefit patient outcomesensuring individual goals are achieved and alerting the Multidisciplinary Team of anyconcerns of crisis or problems arising with a patient or family member.

Recognise and report any changes in psychological, social and spiritual needs of patients and provide appropriate level of psychological support within level of competency, referring to Multidisciplinary team where required.

To work within internal pathways to identify individual needs and refer to professional team members or services, making appropriate recommendations for patient care and liaising with community teams as required.

Contribute positively to providing an effective learning environment for all students on placement at Pilgrims, for new multidisciplinary team staff during their induction period and to support the ongoing development of all members of the wellbeing team

To provide assistance with aspects of personal care and the physical comfort ofpatients e.g. toileting and personal hygiene whilst respecting patients dignity,values and privacy and adhering to infection prevention and control policies.

Demonstrate an understanding of clinical skills when undertaking the assessments of patients and be able to carry out basic observations such as blood pressure, pulse, saturation and temperature if required.

Promote support and contribute to a high standard of care, including awareness and understanding of safeguarding.

To employ a range of skills, techniques and resources to enable and empower patients with communication difficulties.

Create a safe environment for patients and staff, undertaking risk assessment and completing incident reports where necessary.

Take decisive and remedial action when faced with a complex or demanding situation to ensure the safety of patients,, families or volunteers and communicate these actions with appropriate team members and external professionals.

Keep clear and accurate patient records in accordance with Pilgrims clinical recordkeeping guidance.

To support the service by undertaking administrative duties where required.

Maintain continued personal development, participating in education and mandatorytraining and working effectively to meet personal development plan objectives andknowledge and skills as set out within the competence framework.

Be prepared to work across all three hospice sites as required to maintain continueddelivery of service.

Support and work with the Education team with events and local communityknowledge, developing resources to benefit all patients, carers and family members

Pilgrims is fully committed to equality in employment and service delivery and all thoseworking for Pilgrims Hospices are expected to actively promote equality and diversityin all aspects of their work

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Experience of working in a multidisciplinary care setting

Desirable

• Experience of working with volunteers
• Experience of leading a small group in activities

Qualifications

Essential

• A good standard of secondary education, including a minimum
• of grade C in Maths and English GCSEs

Desirable

• NVQ Level 2 & 3 in Health and Social Care
• Further relevant qualifications in therapeutic support

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice Thanet

Ramsgate Road

Margate

Kent

CT9 4AD

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Undertake person centred holistic assessment in consultation with patients, carers and families identifying symptoms and needs and prescribe appropriate services to enable and empower individuals and enhance psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing.

Engage with and contribute positively to Wellbeing Programmes, facilitating and delivering evidence based group interventions, one to one interventions and activities to improve health and wellbeing.

Evaluating feedback to inform ongoing development and design of the services.

To be fully conversant with Pilgrims Therapy Wellbeing Programmes, and committedto the ongoing evaluation, development and delivery of wellbeing services across theorganisation.

Promote the benefits of Wellbeing Programmes to all hospice patients and theirfamilies, and encourage referrals from the Multidisciplinary Team and external healthand social care colleagues. To engage with patients on the inpatient unit and supportwith patient centred wellbeing interventions.

To be engaged with the discharge process of patients on the inpatient unit,discussing Therapy Centre wellbeing interventions and offering referrals toappropriate groups and programmes.

Apply a range of interpersonal skills in response to the different needs of individuals,using active listening skills and adapting communication to build a rapport withpatients and family members, as well as volunteers and professional colleagues.

Engage with patients and carers via virtual technology and supportive telephone calls

To facilitate support groups and educational sessions in person and via virtualtechnology, including contributing to pre-recorded virtual programmes and sessions.

To support the team in building and maintaining appropriate external partnerships.

To liaise with local community support services and groups.

Engage with and contribute positively to Multidisciplinary Team meetings anddecision making, sharing appropriate information to benefit patient outcomesensuring individual goals are achieved and alerting the Multidisciplinary Team of anyconcerns of crisis or problems arising with a patient or family member.

Recognise and report any changes in psychological, social and spiritual needs of patients and provide appropriate level of psychological support within level of competency, referring to Multidisciplinary team where required.

To work within internal pathways to identify individual needs and refer to professional team members or services, making appropriate recommendations for patient care and liaising with community teams as required.

Contribute positively to providing an effective learning environment for all students on placement at Pilgrims, for new multidisciplinary team staff during their induction period and to support the ongoing development of all members of the wellbeing team

To provide assistance with aspects of personal care and the physical comfort ofpatients e.g. toileting and personal hygiene whilst respecting patients dignity,values and privacy and adhering to infection prevention and control policies.

Demonstrate an understanding of clinical skills when undertaking the assessments of patients and be able to carry out basic observations such as blood pressure, pulse, saturation and temperature if required.

Promote support and contribute to a high standard of care, including awareness and understanding of safeguarding.

To employ a range of skills, techniques and resources to enable and empower patients with communication difficulties.

Create a safe environment for patients and staff, undertaking risk assessment and completing incident reports where necessary.

Take decisive and remedial action when faced with a complex or demanding situation to ensure the safety of patients,, families or volunteers and communicate these actions with appropriate team members and external professionals.

Keep clear and accurate patient records in accordance with Pilgrims clinical recordkeeping guidance.

To support the service by undertaking administrative duties where required.

Maintain continued personal development, participating in education and mandatorytraining and working effectively to meet personal development plan objectives andknowledge and skills as set out within the competence framework.

Be prepared to work across all three hospice sites as required to maintain continueddelivery of service.

Support and work with the Education team with events and local communityknowledge, developing resources to benefit all patients, carers and family members

Pilgrims is fully committed to equality in employment and service delivery and all thoseworking for Pilgrims Hospices are expected to actively promote equality and diversityin all aspects of their work

Person Specification

Experience

Essential

• Experience of working in a multidisciplinary care setting

Desirable

• Experience of working with volunteers
• Experience of leading a small group in activities

Qualifications

Essential

• A good standard of secondary education, including a minimum
• of grade C in Maths and English GCSEs

Desirable

• NVQ Level 2 & 3 in Health and Social Care
• Further relevant qualifications in therapeutic support

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice Thanet

Ramsgate Road

Margate

Kent

CT9 4AD

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)

Job description

Job responsibilities

Job Dimensions

• The post holder will work as part of a team to deliver high quality palliative care in the in-patient unit at either Ashford/Canterbury/Thanet but may be required to work at any of the other sites upon request.
• The post holder will support the operational management by take responsibility for the ward in the absence of the Ward Manager and Ward Sister, ensuring patient care is maintained.
• Although not responsible for a budget, the post holder will be expected to be aware of cost implications and make the best use of valuable resources.
• The post holder will contribute to the learning environment, acting as practice supervisor/assessor to qualified/unqualified colleagues and students, to facilitate and assist in achieving learning objectives.

• The post holder will be a registered nurse accountable for the direct delivery of patient care within an in-patient unit caring for patients with palliative needs.
• Work will be undertaken in line with Pilgrims Hospice, local and national policy and guidance and the NMC professional codes of conduct.
• The post holder will work within the multidisciplinary team and will influence the decisions of patient care from a nursing perspective. On a day to day basis the post holder will work under indirect supervision making decisions based on best practice and evidence based research.
• Working within a team structure the registered nurse will ensure all incidents, complaints, difficulties and complex situations are documented and any remedial actions taken by the multi-disciplinary. In addition the post holder will ensure the Ward Sister or Ward Manager are notified and aware of such occurrences.

Principle accountabilities and responsibilities

Clinical and professional

• Maintain a high level of nursing care through direct delivery of personal, emotional and psychological care for patients. Through effective assessment of each patients needs and preferences the post holder will plan evidence based nursing care, implement and continuously evaluate the care given and ensure this meets the needs of individualized patient care.
• Undertake patient care as directed in the patients care plan in order to meet each patients care needs whilst maintaining independence as much as possible and maintaining privacy and dignity at all times. This will include for example hygiene and elimination needs, assisting eating and drinking and ensuring nutrition is maintained.
• Successfully manage clinical emergencies specifically related to palliative care through swift recognition, instigating and carrying out any immediate actions and reporting and sharing information quickly.
• Whilst responsible to the ward sister/team leader, the post holder will work competently and confidently without direct supervision to complete delegated work load, including maintaining skill mix and staff planning.
• To maintain effective operation, the post holder will take responsibility for the ward, delegate the workload and supervise trained and untrained staff as needed.
• Maintain continuity of patient care through accurate verbal reports and electronic and written documentation including the use of electronic patient management systems ensuring patient confidentiality at all times.
• Ensure all patient information is electronically recorded in a safe, accurate and contemporaneous manner through familiarity with and daily use of EMIS and Ashtons electronic patient management system and adherence to Hospice IT protocols.
• Expedite successful discharge where appropriate with good quality planning for patients needs.
• Provide sensitive and empathetic emotional and psychological support for patients and carers during the delivery of bad news, of terminal care and during and after the event of death. Ensure high standard of care for patient and carers after death by following appropriate hospice protocols.
• Maintain safe and effective drug administration by administering all medications, and setting up and maintaining subcutaneous syringe drivers according to the Hospice and NMC codes and guidelines.
• Maintain safe nursing practice by attaining and maintaining competency in clinical interventions as set out within the knowledge and skills framework.
• Ensure high standard of care through awareness and implementation of Hospice policies, procedures and guidelines especially in relation to infection control, manual handling, health and safety and fire.

Management

• Ensure the safety of patients, visitors and other staff by maintaining a safe environment, recognising any hazards and responding appropriately.
• Participates in the induction of new staff and facilitates the training of new and existing colleagues through mentorship and supervision as required. In addition is required to act as practice supervisor/assessor for student health professionals, assisting with learning and providing documented evidence as required.
• Contributes to the organization and running of the ward by undertaking administrative tasks as requested i.e. ward staff rota
• Maintain adequate levels of drugs, dressings and general stores by ordering according to hospice practice.
• Promote a high level of consistent nursing care by participating in the development and implementation of clinical policies and protocols.
• Maintain knowledge and skills competencies and high standards of care, through continued professional development set out within the performance management process including annual appraisal, attending and successfully completing mandatory training and reviewing progress with the line manager alongside a personal development plan.
• Provides teaching sessions to ward based colleagues as required, either on an individual basis or small groups as required, e.g. in manual handling, infection control or NVQ modules. These may be pre-planned or impromptu as time allows.
• Facilitate any internal or external research projects by participating and/or auditing as requested by the Ward Manager.

Measures of Success

• Achievement of a safe, effective ward in which palliative nursing care is successfully accomplished.
• High level of satisfaction from patients and relatives, low level of adverse comments or complaints.
• Effective understanding and successful implementation of the Hospices policies and procedures
• Successful supervision of untrained staff.
• Effective use of all physical and IT based resources including stocks, supplies, data systems and the patient management system (EMIS/Ashtons)

Communications & Relationships

Internal - Nurse Manager and Ward Sister, Lead Nurse Patient Safety and Quality Consultant, Multi Disciplinary Team, Administrator Volunteers

External - General practitioners, Community Nurses, Hospital CNS Teams

• Attend multidisciplinary team meetings to provide nursing opinion on patient and clinical issues ensuring that open and focused discussion is practiced.
• Meet with patients carers to address and advise on nursing care, clinical practice, and patient related inquiries. Ensure patients and carers are informed with regard to patient choice, treatment and progress, whilst maintaining respect for the privacy and dignity of the patient.
• Effectively communicate with other agencies to ensure continuity of care between the Hospice, community and continuing care setting.
• Ensure patients understanding and compliance for treatment or intervention is maintained even when communication is impaired, e.g. due to visual, hearing or cognitive impairment by using all verbal and non verbal communication skills.
• Ensure continuity of care by providing effective verbal and written reports on individual patients conditions and any changes in treatment to members of nursing team at handover to next shift and to recognise the need to report to senior nurse or doctor when appropriate.
• Negotiate and advocate on behalf of patients, relatives and staff, providing information that can be difficult for people to understand or can cause distress for example giving pre / post bereavement support, information, advice to patients, families, children, next of kin, friends and recognise the need to refer to other expert counsellors and agencies.
• Ensure effective channels of communication with individuals, the multidisciplinary team, other departments, outside agencies, managers and staff. This can take the form of receiving and acting on information, giving advice, and attending meetings.
• Adopt standards of behaviours in keeping with Pilgrims Hospice mission and core values and the NMC Professional code of conduct.
• Attend meetings within the Hospice, for example ward nursing staff/ multidisciplinary team handover, Health and Safety and relevant meetings and briefings as directed by the Ward Manager.

Education/Training/Teaching

• Ensures own knowledge is up to date, undertaking mandatory training and attending workshops and training courses for the benefit of continued personal development, to learn new skills and increase knowledge.
• Takes responsibility for ensuring that new staff receive support and education during induction and acts as a positive role model.
• Promotes the work of the Hospice through collaborative working with clinical and allied professionals, participating in a multi-professional team working approach to support patients, families and careers irrespective of setting.
• Contributes to the delivery of formal and informal education within Pilgrims Hospices.
• Directly supervise student nurses in the clinical areas acting as a practice supervisor/assessor and assisting learners to achieve learning objectives.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• First Level registration
• Evidence of ongoing professional development

Desirable

• Post registration Nursing Course (Palliative Care Dip/Degree, ENB 931, 237 or equivalent)

Experience

Essential

• Sound experience as registered nurse in specialist palliative care setting or to transfer skills from an associated environment
• Experience with mentoring student/junior nurses.

Desirable

• Practice Supervisor / Practice Assessor or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills and Other Requirements

Essential

• Must hold valid, unrestricted right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship
• Good communication skills
• Organisational and managerial skills
• Teaching skills
• Supervision and staff support skills
• Knowledge of IT and ability to use IT appropriately in the workplace.
• Ability to work in a multi-professional environment
• Flexible approach to working patterns and the changing needs of healthcare
• Knowledge of IT & ability to use IT appropriately in the workplace
• Neat, tidy and professional appearance
• Strong motivation to work at Pilgrims Hospice
• Car Driver / Access to a vehicle

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent

Address

Pilgrims Hospice Ashford

Hythe Road

Ashford

Kent

TN24 0NE

United Kingdom

Employer's website

https://www.pilgrimshospices.org/jobs (Opens in a new tab)